Senior Project Estimator
Location: Fort Washington, PA
Department: Estimating / Preconstruction
Reports To: Director of Estimating
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Overview
The Senior Project Estimator is a key leader in CleanSpaceโs preconstruction and project development efforts, overseeing projects from concept through construction award. This role drives project strategy, manages complex scopes, and ensures alignment across cost, schedule, and execution. Acting as a senior liaison between clients, internal teams, and subcontractors, this position is critical to securing profitable work and positioning projects for successful execution.
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Experience & Qualifications
ยท 7โ12+ years of experience in construction estimating, preconstruction, or project development
ยท Proven experience managing large-scale or complex projects, ideally within cleanroom or controlled environment construction
ยท Degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, or equivalent technical experience preferred
ยท Strong financial and business acumen with a deep understanding of project cost structures and profitability
ยท Demonstrated leadership, mentorship, and cross-functional coordination experience
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Key Responsibilities
ยท Lead preconstruction activities: estimating, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management
ยท Develop and execute strategies for complex, high-value projects
ยท Own project financials during preconstruction, ensuring accuracy, competitiveness, and margin performance
ยท Lead development of GMPs (Guaranteed Maximum Prices) and pricing strategies
ยท Mentor and guide junior estimators and project team members
ยท Build and maintain strong client relationships to support repeat and long-term business
ยท Oversee change management strategy, cost controls, and financial forecasting
ยท Partner with operations leadership to ensure seamless project handoff and execution alignment
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Preconstruction Management
ยท Develop project cash flow and invoicing/billing plans
ยท Maintain communication channels: status letters, control logs, and updates
ยท Develop formal scopes of work for vendors and subcontractors
ยท Create schedules and overall strategy for assigned preconstruction projects
ยท Represent the company at client-led preconstruction meetings (Envelope projects)
ยท Lead company-led preconstruction meetings: organize weekly agendas and deliverables (Turnkey projects)
ยท Ensure client satisfaction throughout the preconstruction process
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Department Management & Oversight ยท Manage full employee lifecycle: compensation, recruiting, hiring, promotions, and terminations ยท Oversee employee relations, ensuring a positive and compliant work environment
ยท Mentor, develop, and train department staff to foster growth, accountability, and engagement ยท Supervise Estimators and Estimating Engineers, review their work, and maintain quality standards
ยท Oversee estimates for projects at all stages
ยท Drive deadlines and achieve results across the department ยท Establish departmental policies, standards, and performance expectations
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Core Technical Proficiencies
ยท Strong knowledge of cost-side, sell-side, and margin metrics with strategic pricing ability
ยท Expertise in conceptual estimating, specifically for cleanroom envelope projects
ยท Identify gaps in provided information and develop accurate, assumption-based pricing
ยท Develop initial GMPs and support contract negotiations
ยท Read and interpret drawings and specifications across disciplines
ยท Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for architectural, mechanical, and electrical cleanroom systems
ยท Develop and schedule advanced labor costs (including overtime, union labor, and shift work)
ยท Interpret project schedules and generate formal, detailed responses
ยท Communicate and qualify clarifications, exclusions, exceptions, and scope โhandshakeโ points
ยท Solicit, level, and follow up with vendors and subcontractors for complete pricing coverage
ยท Understand local construction markets, labor conditions, and pricing trends
ยท Knowledge of value engineering concepts, alternates, and cost optimization strategies
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Day-to-Day Activities
ยท Lead development and review of estimates, budgets, and schedules across multiple projects
ยท Coordinate with design, manufacturing, field operations, and subcontractors to ensure alignment
ยท Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies throughout preconstruction
ยท Participate in client meetings, presentations, and pricing discussions
ยท Track and report project pipeline, estimate accuracy, and profitability metrics
ยท Support business development and strategic planning initiatives
ยท Ensure adherence to company standards, safety protocols, and ethical practices